Name: Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 0.5 pound 93% lean ground turkey; 0.5 pound sweet chicken Italian sausage ((removed from casing)); 1 large egg; 0.33 cup seasoned breadcrumbs ((or gluten-free breadcrumbs)); 0.5 small onion ((finely chopped)); 2 cloves garlic ((finely chopped)); 1 tablespoon fresh sage ((finely chopped)); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley ((finely chopped)); 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt ((and fresh black pepper)); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large carrots ((peeled and sliced)); 2 ribs celery ((sliced)); 1 medium yellow onion ((chopped)); 3 cloves garlic ((finely minced)); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme ((chopped)); 1 tablespoon fresh sage ((chopped)); 1 leaf bay leaf; 6 cups chicken bone broth ((unsalted or regular broth, divided)); 2 15-ounce cans white beans ((such as cannellini or navy beans, drained and rinsed, divided)); 4 cups collard greens ((or flat leaf kale, thinly sliced, remove stems)); 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt ((use less if your bone broth has salt, or to taste)); fresh lemon juice OR Parmesan ((for serving, optional))

Introduction to Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

The joy of homemade comfort food

There's something beautifully nostalgic about homemade comfort food. It wraps you in warmth and familiarity, and one bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs can instantly transport you to a cozy kitchen in Italy. With earthy flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish embraces the essence of comfort, making it perfect for those chilly nights. As we juggle busy work schedules and social lives, having a reliable recipe like this soups not only nurtures our bodies but also our spirits.

Why Tuscan White Bean Soup resonates with young professionals

For young professionals, Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs offers a wholesome solution to the common dilemma of quick yet satisfying meals. Each serving packs a protein punch while remaining easy to prepare—a true culinary superhero! Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep: you can whip up a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. Studies indicate that cooking at home, rather than relying on takeout, not only saves money but also contributes to better health outcomes source.

So gather your ingredients and experience the joy and satisfaction of creating this delicious soup. Not only will your taste buds thank you, but your busy schedule will appreciate this delightful time-saver!

Ingredients for Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

Ingredient breakdown for meatballs

Creating the meatballs in this delicious Tuscan White Bean Soup is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ pound ground turkey: Lean and healthy, it provides the perfect base.
½ pound sweet chicken Italian sausage: Adds a fantastic flavor punch.
1 large egg: Helps bind the meatballs together.
⅓ cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Choose gluten-free if needed; these add texture.
½ small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and moisture.
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped: A must for that aromatic kick.
1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped: Imparts a warm, earthy flavor.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds freshness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt and pepper: To taste.

Ingredient breakdown for the soup

The soup itself is hearty and loaded with nutritious ingredients. Here’s what goes into it:

1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the veggies.
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced: Sweetness and color.
2 celery ribs, sliced: Essential for flavor depth.
1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Aromatic base.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Because you can never have too much garlic.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Adds a herbaceous note.
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped: Complements the meatballs.
1 bay leaf: Enhances the broth’s flavor complexity.
6 cups chicken bone broth: A robust and nourishing foundation.
2 cans white beans: For creaminess and texture—great sources of protein.
4 cups collard greens or kale, thinly sliced: Vital nutrients and a gorgeous green element.
1-½ teaspoons kosher salt: Adjust according to your broth’s saltiness.
Fresh lemon juice or Parmesan for serving: An optional finishing touch to brighten the dish.

This Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs is truly a labor of love, but trust me, every bite is worth it! For even more flavorful inspiration, check out The Mediterranean Dish for tips on enhancing your soup-making skills.

Preparing Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

Making a soul-warming bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs is not only rewarding but surprisingly simple. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish step-by-step, ensuring you fill every spoonful with flavor and comfort.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the meatballs:
½ pound 93% lean ground turkey
½ pound sweet chicken Italian sausage (removed from casing)
1 large egg
⅓ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
½ small onion (finely chopped)
2 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
Fresh herbs: 1 tablespoon fresh sage and 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (both finely chopped)
½ teaspoon kosher salt and fresh black pepper
For the soup:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large carrots (peeled and sliced)
2 celery ribs (sliced)
1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
Herbs: 1 tablespoon fresh thyme and 1 tablespoon fresh sage
1 bay leaf
6 cups chicken bone broth (divided)
2 cans (15-ounce) white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans, drained and rinsed)
4 cups collard greens (or flat leaf kale, thinly sliced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh lemon juice or Parmesan for serving

Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, Italian sausage, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, sage, parsley, salt, and pepper. It’s crucial to mix this just enough so that everything is combined but not overworked—after all, no one likes a tough meatball!

Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Now for the fun part: shaping the meatballs! Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should yield around 24 meatballs.

Next, heat a large Dutch oven or nonstick soup pot over medium heat and lightly spray it with oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be cooked through just yet—just achieve that lovely golden color.

Prepare the Soup Base

In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the carrots, celery, and onions. Let these cook on medium-low for about 5-8 minutes until they’re softened. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, sage, and the bay leaf. A good rule of thumb: cook until fragrant, usually about a minute.

Combine Ingredients and Simmer

Time to blend the goodness! Add the remaining chicken broth, browned meatballs, one can of puréed beans (blended with one cup of broth), the whole beans, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring this delightful mix to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, covering it for about 10 minutes. Finally, stir in the collard greens and let it simmer for another 10-12 minutes until everything is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked.

Now, grab some crusty bread, ladle up that Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs, and savor the flavors. You could even add a squeeze of lemon or some Parmesan for an extra touch!

And there you have it—a cozy dish perfect for chilly nights or meal prepping for the week! For more great recipes, check out this fantastic blog for inspiration. Happy cooking!

Variations on Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

Alternative Proteins for the Meatballs

If you're looking to mix it up, consider using alternative proteins for the meatballs in your Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs. Ground chicken or beef can provide a different flavor profile, while plant-based options like lentils or chickpeas can cater to vegetarian preferences. Simply mash the beans or lentils and bind them with breadcrumbs and your favorite seasonings for a delicious twist.

Seasonal Vegetable Additions

Don't hesitate to customize your soup with seasonal vegetables! Adding zucchini, spinach, or butternut squash not only brings a burst of color but also enhances the nutritional value. You can adjust the veggies based on availability—consider seasonal farmers' market finds to keep this cozy soup fresh and vibrant. Your taste buds (and tummy) will thank you!

For more ideas on seasonal eating, check out resources like Eat Seasonably for inspiration.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

When crafting your Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs, remember these handy tips for a delightful outcome:

Meatball Magic: If you're short on time, skip rolling meatballs and simply sauté the mixture until crumbled. It offers the same flavor impact without the fuss!
Fresh Herbs Matter: The freshness of herbs like sage and thyme can elevate your soup. If you can, try to use fresh rather than dried for optimal flavor.
Texture Balance: Blending one can of beans creates a creamy base, while leaving some whole adds a great textural contrast.
Meal Prep Champion: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a double batch for those busy weeknights!

For more tips on sauce and soup pairings, check out Food52's guide. Your taste buds will thank you!

Serving suggestions for Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

When it comes to enjoying your Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs, the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. The bread’s texture complements the creamy broth beautifully.
Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Consider adding some cherry tomatoes or shaved Parmesan.
Cheese: Top your soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino for an extra layer of flavor.

Pairing your soup with these wholesome sides will create a cozy, satisfying meal. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

Preparation time
Getting ready takes about 30 minutes. This includes chopping your vegetables, mixing the meatball ingredients, and forming those delicious little bites.

Cooking time
Once you're prepped, the actual cooking will take around 40 minutes. This time involves browning the meatballs and allowing the soup to simmer for the flavors to meld perfectly.

Total time
From start to finish, you’ll spend approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes creating this hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs. Perfect to warm up your busy weeknights!

For more tips on meal prepping and cooking techniques, check out resources like Serious Eats for additional insights. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

When you're whipping up a cozy bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs, knowing its nutritional profile helps you enjoy it guilt-free. Here’s the breakdown:

Calories

Each hearty serving of this soup gives you about 308 calories. It’s satisfying while keeping the calorie count in check.

Protein

With 27.5 grams of protein per serving, this soup is a fantastic option for those looking to boost their intake. The combo of turkey and sausage meatballs does the trick!

Sodium

One serving contains approximately 800 milligrams of sodium. If you’re monitoring your salt intake, consider using unsalted broth or adjusting the recipe’s salt content to suit your dietary needs.

For more information on balanced eating, check out the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to keep your meatballs intact by storing them in the soup rather than separately.

How long does leftover soup last?

Leftovers are a fantastic option! Your soup will stay fresh in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing portions—this way, you can have a comforting meal on hand whenever you crave it. Just remember to leave out the collard greens before freezing, as they don’t thaw well.

What can I use instead of collard greens?

If collard greens aren’t your thing or you can’t find them, don’t worry! You can substitute them with kale, spinach, or even Swiss chard. Each will give the soup its own unique twist while still blending beautifully with the Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs.

Conclusion on Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs

In summary, Tuscan White Bean Soup with Meatballs is an inviting dish that combines rich flavors with hearty ingredients. Perfect for meal prep, it’s nutritious, delicious, and can easily warm your soul on chilly nights. Enjoy it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a comforting meal ready to savor.

For more delicious soup recipes, check out these variations on The Kitchn and Smitten Kitchen.